Voting-machine.



J, H. DEAN.- VOTING MACHINE.

APPLICATION FILED JULY 25, 1905.

Patented Sept. 30, 1913.

4 SHEETS-SHEET 1.

COLUMBIA PLANOGRAPM co., WASHINGTON. u. C.

J. H. DEAN. VOTING MACHINE.

APPLICATION FILED .IULY25, 1905. 1,074,314 Patented Sept. 30, 1913.

. 4 SHEETS-SHEET 2.

COLUMBIA PLANOGRAPH cn., WASHINGTON. nA C.

Patented Sept. 30, 1913.

4 SHEETS-SHEET 3.

NNN www J. H. DEAN.

VOTING MACHINE.

APPLIUATION FILED JULY z5, 1905.

coLuMmft PLANounAPH Co., WASHINGTON, n. c.

4 SHEETS-SHEET 4.

J. H. DEANI VOTING MAGHINE.

APPLIOATION FILED JULY 25, 1905.

Patented Sept. 30, 1913.

COLUMBIA PLANOGRAPM llc-,WASHINGTON D. c.

* UNITED sTATEs PATENT oEEioE.

JAMES H. DEAN, OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, ASSIGNOR, BY MESNE ASSIGNMENTS, TO TRIUMPH VOTING MACHINE COMPANY, A CORPGRATION OF NEW JERSEY.

VOTING-MACHINE.

Speccation of Letters Patent.

Patented Sept. 30, 1913.

Application filed July 25, 1905. Serial No. 271,218.

10 @ZZ eli/2,0m 25 may concern:

Be it known that I, JAMES I-I. DEAN, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of Chicago, county of Cook, and State of Illinois, have invented certain new and useful Improvements in Voting-Machines, of which I do declare the following to be a full, clear, and exact description, reference being had to the accompanying drawings, forming part of this speciiication.

The present invention relates to the interlocking or limiting mechanism for voting machines whereby the voter is prevented from voting for more than the proper number of candidates.

The invention while susceptible of use in various other forms of voting machines, is, in the specific form shown, more particularly designed for use in a voting machine of the character setl forth in an application for Letters Patent filed by me in the United States Patent Office December 27, 1904, Serial No. 238,388, to which application reference is specially directed in order to avoid the illustration of many parts of the machine designed to cooperate with the mechanism hereinafter described.

The invention relates more particularly to that type of voting machine in which a series of interlocking rods having spreading devices are connected to` and operated by the ballot indicators or voter-s keys and in which means are arranged to cooperate with the interlocking rods and spreaders thereof to limit the operation of the keys and rods to a predetermined number land which limiting mechanism may be re-arranged to form either single candidate or multi-candidate groups.

Heretofore, the operation of the interlocking mechanism was limited by fixed or stationary stops at the ends of the several groups of interlocking rods or spreaders so as to limit the interlocking space between the ends of any group to a constant quantity. I y

The principal object of the present invention is to provide movable limiting means for the interlocking mechanism which will accommodate or adjust itself to the varied operations of the ballot` indicators or keys provide a form of, interlocking mechanism particularly applicable to voting machines having substantially horizontal face plates such as shown in the prior application referred to.

The invention consists in the features of construction, combination and arrangement of parts hereinafter set forth, illustrated in the accompanying drawings and more particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

In the drawings Figure 1 is a top plan view 4of a voting machine of the type set forth in the above mentionedv application, Serial NO VQBSSS. Fig. 2 is a transverse section through the machine. Fig. 3 is a side elevation in enlarged scale of the interlocking nods, blocks or spreaders and associated parts. Fig. d is a view in vertical, longitudinal section through the interlocking mechanism adjacent one of the bars that supports the interlocking' slide blocks or Y spaces, said interlocking' slide blocks being indicated in dotted lines. Figs. 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are views in vertical, transverse Vsection on lines 5 5, 6 6, 7 7, 8 8 and 9 9 of Fig. 3. Fig. 10 is a detail inverted plan view of t-he interlocking mechanism for two rows or office lines of ballot indicators or keys, the interlocking mechanism being arranged in single candidate-groups. Fig. 10a is an inverted plan view of a portion of the interlocking mechansiin for four rows or oiiice lines of voters keys arranged in multicandidate group. Fig. 11 is a plan view of the interlocking mechanism with four rows or office lines of voting devices arranged in a multi-candidate group, the interlocking rodsbeing shown in section. Fig. 12 is a detail view in side elevation of one of the interlocking blocks or spacers adjacent the end of each otlice row. Fig. 13 is a detail view in horizontal section of the end block or stop at the end of each o'llice line or row. Fig. 14 is a view in section of parts shown in Fig. 18.

The frame or casing 1 of the machine is box-like in structure and the name or face plate 126 at the top of the frame or casing is horizontal or substantially so. The ballot indicators or keys 160 project through the name or face plate 126 and are arranged in party columns extending from front to rear of the machine and in office rows or lines extending from side to side thereof. The names of the candidates of the diiferent parties and for the several offices will be of course correspondingly a ranged in columns and transverse otlice rows or lines. The size of the machine may be varied to accommodate any desired number of party columns of keys and any suitable number of office rows or lines of keys. The keys 160 control counters 161 through the medium of the counter actuators 162 in the manner set forth in the prior application above noted. The keys and counters are arranged in removable sections mounted within the machine upon supports 163 below the name plate 126. The counters are read through openings 127 in a plate 128. This plate is just below the name plate 126 and the latter normally covers the openings 127 so that the counters are'not exposed until the end of the election, when the name plate 126 is removed.

Each of the ballot indicators or keys 160 is provided at its lower end with a slot through which projects the end 205 of a rock arm 206 (see Fig. 2). The several rock arms 206 are mounted upon hubs or sleeves 208 which are carried in turn upon shafts 210. Each rock arm is provided on its lower edge with a slot or cut-away space 211 into which extends a laterally offset lug 212 that projects from a corresponding hub 20S so that the shaftsv 210 may operate as locking and resetting shafts for the several keys and rock arms as set forth in the prior application referred to.

To the free end or tail piece of each of the rock arms 206 is pivotally connected the upper end of an interlocking rod or spreader link 216. This rod preferably consists of two bars or members which are arranged on opposite sides of the corresponding rocker arms and are connected thereto by the pivot or rivet 215. At its lower end each interlocking rod is provided with a spreader portion preferably in the form of a cylindrical stud or rivet 217 (see Figs. 3 and 4) set between the lower ends of the bars or members of each rod and serving to hold said bars or members at proper distance apart.

The spacing devices or interlocking slide blocks between the interlocking rods and spreaders are preferably in the form of thin fiat plates 220 arranged in vertical planes and, in t-he form shown, are arranged in rows corresponding with the rows of keys and interlocking rods. These spacers or interlocking blocks are mounted to slide upon suitable supporting bars or guide rails 224, 224a which are arranged in horizontal series within the frame or casing and below the counting mechanism at the upper portion thereof. rFliese supporting rods or bars are preferably arranged in pairs, as most clearly shown in Fig. 11, the bars 224, 224Z1 of each pair being connected by studs or rivets 224". Each pair of bars supports two adjacent rows or lines of interlocking slide blocks or spacers which are arranged outside of the pair of supporting bars 224, 2242i. These blocks or spacers are provided on their inner faces with oppositely disposed, projecting studs 225 that are suitably grooved to engage the upper and lower edges of the supporting bars or rails (see Fig. 9). The end slides or blocks 222 and 223 of each row, which, as hereinafter explained, form the limiting stops or abutments for the several. single and multi-candidate groups, are provided with similar studs 225 slidably engaging the supporting bars 224, 224e.

For compact arrangement the rock arms corresponding to the column of keys at one end of the machine are reversed in position so that the interlocking rods or links 216 connected thereto are brought closely adjacentthe interlocking rods or links of the next column of keys. This necessitates the use of the short narrow blocks or spacers 221 which are too small to be provided with supporting studs and which are therefore secured by rivets 216 to the inner faces of slide plates 227 (see Figs. 6 and 12) which extend outside of the adjacent blocks 220 and 222 and are provided with inwardly projecting studs 228 having slots engaging the supporting bars 224, 224a (see Fig. 7 This plate 227 is shown in dotted lines in Fig. 3 and as there shown the adjacent block 220 is cut away or notched as at 229 to receive one of the studs 228. This notched or cut-away space is of sutlicient size to permit of the relative shift or spread of the blocks 220 and 221.

The interlocking blocks or spacers are thus mounted to slide in horizontal planes and are arranged to abut against one another. The end abutting or interlocking faces of tie blocks or spacers are parallel and are cut away at their lowei' portions to form the recesses 230. The opposite faces of these recesses have lower parallel portions and upper inclined portions, as shown, and the spreaders 217 are normally arranged within these recesses so that the spreaders and interlocking rodsV or links 216 shift laterally or in horizontal direction with the interlocking blocks or spacers.

'All

The two members of each of the interlocking rods or links 216 eXtend on opposite sides oi the spacers or blocks 220, as clearly shown in Fig. 8.

The ballot indicators or keys 160, in the torni shown, are push keys, that is to say, they are lonigtudinally shiftable to and from voted position. Vfhen any one of these ballot indicators or keys is depressed or pushed down to voted position, the correspending rock arm 206 is shifted and the interlocking rod or link 216 connected thereto is pulled up in longitudinal direction to bring its spreader portion 217 into position between the interlocking faces of two adjacent blocks or spacers. The action of the cylindrical spreaders upon the inclined faces ot the recesses 230 readily forces the blocks apart so that the spreader portions occupy the position between the interlocking faces oit two adjacent blocks, as shown in Figs. 8 and 4. The interlockingrods or links 216 are thus shifted longitudinally or in vertical direction to bring the spreaders 217 into and out of position between the parallel interlocking` faces of the blocks or spacers. The blocks or spacers hold these spreaders and interlocking rods in proper spaced relation and, since the interlocking rods or links 216 are pivoted to the rock arms 206, the interlocking rods and spreaders are free to move laterally or in hori- Zontal direction with the slide blocks or spacers.

'lhe spread of any two adjacent blocks is preferably limited by means of links 240, the bent ends of which extend around the lower studs adjacent the abut-ting edges ot two adjacent slide blocks or spacers 220. The upper members of these links are open so as to permit thelateral swing ofthe interlocking rods or links 216. Each of these links 24M) is of sutlicient length to permit the slide blocks coupled thereby to be spread. apart by the corresponding spreader 217 a distance equal to the thickness of suchk spreader. The Slide block 220 at one end of each row is connected to the adjacent end block or abutment 223 byf a similar link 2li/J. The end block 220 at the opposite end ot each row is connected to the adjacent block 221 by the engagement ot a stud 228 on the plate 227 with a cut-away space or slot in the block 220. This cut-away space or slot is ot' sufficient length to per mit the blocks 220 and 221 to be spread apart the thickness of a single spreader. The block 221 is connected to the end block or alinitment stop 222 by the studs 228 on the outer end of the plate 227. There is sutlicient lost play between the end block 222 and the studs 228 on the outer end of the plate 227 to permit the block 221 and the end block 222 to be shifted apart for a distance equal to the thickness of a singlespreader. The plate 227, as above stated, is secured to the block 221 by the studs 226. These connections between the slide blocks or spacers and between the slide blocks or spacers and the end blocks or abutment stops permit any two adjacent blocks to be spread apart for a distance equal to the thickness ot a single spreader but serve, however, to prevent a wider separation of the slides or interlocking blocks. This arrangement is ot advantage because in large multi-candidate groups there would be danger of the displacement of the interlocking rods and spreaders thereon, if the slides or interlocking blocks were allowed to spread widely. Y

As stated, the interlocking rods having spreader portions and the spacers or slide blocks are arranged in separate series corresponding with the different oice rows or lines of ballo-t indicators or keys and, in the particular form of the invention shown, the several series ot' interlocking devices are arranged in separate parallel rows. llVhere but one candidate is to be elected to an oitice, the names of the several candidates 'for such ot'- iice are associated with the keys in a single otice line or row and by suitably limiting the spread ot the interlocking rods or ot' the spacers or inter-locking blocks associated with such row, the voter may push down but a single key and therefore cast his vote for but one candidate for such oilice. 1n a multiple office group of candidates, as for example where a number of judges o-r like otlicers are to be elected, the names ot the several candidates are associated with two or more rows ot ballot indicators or keys and it is necessary that the several corresponding series of interlocking devices be grouped together in order that the voter may distribute his vote as he sees i'it. For connecting two or more single candidate groups of interlocking devices to form a multi-candidate group, the stops or abutments or slide blocks 222 and 223 at the ends ot the several single candidate groups or rows are provided withv projecting lugs 223C. These lugs, at the opposite ends ot the several rows ot slide blocks, project laterally in opposite directions, as clearly shown in Fig. l1 and are preferably arranged adjacent the upper portions of the end slide blocks 222 and 223 above the supporting bars 224 and 224'?. lhen two adjacent series or rows ot interlocking devices are to be connected together to form a multi-candidate group, a tie-rod 223b is employed to connect the end blocks at the opposite ends of such rows. These tie-rods are provided with heads at one end and are threaded atthe opposite end and pass freely through suitable openings in the lugs 223c and a thumb nut 223d is secured on to the threaded end of the tie-rod so that the spreading movement of either series of interlocking devices will be transmitted to the other series. In this way any desired number-of series or rows of interlocking devices may be connected together to form a multi-candidate group. In Fig. 11 four series or rows of interlocking devices are shown thus connected to form a multi-candidate group of four.

In any group, Whether a single candidate or a multi-candidate group, the spread of the interlocking rods and spacers or slide blocks must be limited so that only the legal number of votes can be cast by a single voter. In prior constructions, fixed or stationary stops were arranged at the ends of the groups to form the limiting means, that is to say, the limiting means was fixed or stationary relative to the machine frame or casing. Such fixed stops in most prior devices have been formed by locking the end blocks of any group against movement or by providing stationary stops at the ends of the groups of blocks so as to limit the interlocking space or amount of spread permitted in any group to a constant quantity. The means in prior devices for fixing the end blocks or for providing stationary stops were usually adjustable so that two or more adjacent office rows or groups could be thrown into a multi-candidate group but when once adjusted the limiting means remain fixed in position throughout the operation of the machine.

The present invention comprises broadly means that is freely movable in operation for determining the limits of the several groups and, in the preferred form, the end blocks or the stops or abutments 222 and 223 at the extreme ends of the several groups are connected by a movable limiting device, so that the interlocking space and the extent of spread permitted between the ends of any group is maintained at a constant quantity but so that the entire series of interlocking devices is free to shift in opposite directions to automatically adjust itself to the varied operation of the keys by the different voters. Such movable limiting means is of particular value where large multicandidate groups are formed since it gives substantially the same freedom of lateral movement to the interlocking rods or spreader links at the ends of the group as at the central portions t-hereof. As above stated, the interlocking rods or spreader links 216 are shifted longitudinally by the keys to bring their spreader portions into position between the interlocking faces of the spacers or blocks and these interlocking rods are also laterally shiftable with thespacers or blocks in a direction transverse to the longitudinal movement of the rods effected by the keys. If the keys and interlocking rods that are shiftn ed to voted position are distributed widely throughout the multi-candidate group, this lateral displacement from central position of the interlocking rods or the movement thereof to one side or the other of a perpendicular line through their points of connection with the rock arms, is slight, but if a large number of adjacent keys and rods in the group are shifted to voted position, t-he lateral deflection is considerable. This necessary lateral play of the interlocking rods or spreaders at the center of any multi-candidate group is readily taken care of, even if positively fixed or stationary stops be used to determine the ends of the groups, since the central blocks and interlocking rods can move freely in both directions from their normal central position toward the opposite ends of the group but if stationary limiting means is employed, as in prior devices, the interlocking rods or spreader links and blocks adjacent the ends of the groups can move in one direction only so that, if the voter casts all of his votes by operating the series of keys adjacent either end of the group the maximum deflection of some af the interlocking rods will be substantially twice as much as if the keys at the center of the group were employed, and, as any of the series of .spreaders and blocks are liable to be located adjacent the end of a group, the size of the group is limited to the number of steps which t-he spreaders can move laterally when so located. But with a movable limiting connection between the end blocks or abutment stops, the interlocking rods or spreader links at the ends of the group are free to move in both direct-ions from their central position and have as great freedom of lateral play as thc-se at the central por tions of the group, so that in effect the necessary lateral play of any of the blocks or interlocking rods is only one-half of what it would be if a fixed, stationary limiting means were employed.

In any interlocking mechanism of this sort there is a limit to the amount of lateral play permitted to the interlocking rods or spreader links. In the present form shown, it is obvious that as the interlocking rods or links 216 are displaced in lateral direction, the spreader portions 217 will approach the upper portions of the recesses 230, since the interlocking rods swing upon fixed centers and the blocks or spacers slide in a straight line. It is also obvious that this displacement might be sufficient to draw some of the spreader portions of unvoted interlocking rods into position between the spacers or blocks so as to interlock therewith and improperly prevent further operation of the keys and interlocking rods even though the number voted is not up to t-he capacity which the group should accommodate. The size of the machine and the fact that the rods can not be easily operated when swung into an inclined position also limit the amount to which the rods may be shifted laterally from their central position. lf fixed limiting means were employed, the spreaders or interlocking rods at the opposite ends of the group can move in one direction only from normal or toward the centers of the group so that only one-half the number of keys could be voted at either end of the group as at the center portions thereof, whereas with the present invention employing movable limiting means the same number of keys can be voted at all portions of the group. That is to say, the invention will either double the capacity of any given machine as far as its adaptability for use with large groups is concerned or it will diminish the necessary lateral play of the interlocking rods and spacers or blocks one-half and thus materially cut down the size of any niachine, if the capacity in this respect remains the same. Moreover, by permitting the lateral displacement of all the interlocking rods in either direction from its central vertical position, the angle assumed by the rods to the horizontal rows of spacers or blocks is diminished so that there is no danger o-f an unvoted spreader being drawn into positio-n between the interlocking faces of two of the spacers or blocks to improperly dog the interlocking mechanism and prevent the operation thereof up to its full capacity. By providing the movable interlocking mechanism the entire series of interlocking rods and spacers is freely movable in opposite directions and the connected series of spacers will be moved by the operation of the rods so as to center itself with reference to the strain on the rods and so that the interlocking rods and parts connected thereto may be more easily shifted to voted position. That is to say, in a large multi-candidate group, the voter may distribute his votes throughout the group, as when he votes a straight ticket or can as readily operate the same number of keys at either end of the group and the interlocking mechanism will automatically adjust or accommodate itself to the varied operations to which it may be subjected and cannot be improperly operated. It also follows from the substitution of the movable limiting device between the ends of the group, that, since all the blocks and spreaders are free to move in either direction from their central position, the lateral motion when any key and interlocking rod is operated, whether at the center or at the ends of the group, takes place in one or the other direction along the line of least resistance. That is to say, with the old construction in which fixed stationary limiting stops were employed, the movement of the spreader into position between two blocks or spacers at one end of the group might require the movement of nearly all of theA blocks or spacers in the group, whereas with the present invention this movement will take place thro-ugh the movable limiting device between the ends of the group and not back through the entire connected series.

1t is obvious that the movable limiting means may be embodied in many different forms and adapted to different styles of interlocking mechanisms without departure from the broad scope of the invention. In the form shown, the tie-rods 223b which are employed to transmit motion between the separate series of interlocking devices are also used to form the movable limiting connection between the stops or abutments 222 and 223 at the ends of the single candidate and multi-candidate groups. For this purpose the end blocks or the stops or abutments 222 and 223 are provided at their lower edges with laterally projecting flanges 222 and 223f. The flanges on the stops or abutments or blocks at the opposite ends of any one series or row preferably extend in opposite directions, as shown in Fig. l0. These flanges are similar in construction and the construction of the flange 222t is shown in detail in Figs. 13 and 14. They are provided with slots 222b enlarged at their outer ends and contracted at their inner ends arranged to receive studs 222 and 223e. These studs, as shown in Fig, let are provided with annular grooves 2221. adjacent their upper ends so that they may be inserted into the enlarged outer ends of the slots 222b and locked to the end stops or abutments by sliding them inwardly so that the inner portions of the slots 222b engage the annular grooves 222d. Preferably also, flat leaf springs 222e are secured to the flanges 222f and are provided with openings arranged to engage the upper ends or heads of the studs when the latter are in their innermost position as shown in the drawing so that the studs are securely but detachably mounted upon the end stops or abutments. The studs 222c and 223a are provided with openings to receive the tie-rods .223b and the openings in the studs 222a are threaded to receive the threaded ends of the tie-rods, while the openings in the studs 222C are unthreaded and receive the headed ends of the tie-rods. p

In single candidate groups one of the tierods extends between the end stops or abutments 222 and 223 of the group to so limit the interlocking space or extent of spread permitted between the ends of the group that only a single key and interlocking rod in the group can be shifted to voted position with its spreader portion 217 between the parallel interlocking faces of the spacers or blocks of the group. Fig. 10 is an inverted plan view of two rows or two series of interlocking devices with the tie-rods arranged to form two single candidate groups.

CFL

By adjustably threading the ends of the tie-rods into the studs 223a the tie-rods or limiting devices maybe so adjusted as to insure the proper operation of the interlocking mechanism.

As previously stated, when two or more rows are to be thrown into multi-candidate group, the rows are connected together' by the tie-rods 223b which extend between the lugs 222Z1 and 223 on the upper portions of the end stops or abutments 222 and 223. That is to say, the stops or abutments at the opposite ends of adjacent rows are connected by the tie-rods 2231 while the stops or abutments 222 and 223 at the extreme ends of the entire series are connected by one of the tie-rods extending between the studs 222C and 223a on the flanges at the lower edges of such end blocks or stops or abutments. In Fig. 11 is shown a plan view of four series or rows of interlocking devices connected in nulti-candidate group. The tie-rod or limiting device between the ends of the groupl is designated for convenience 223g. 1n Fi 10 an inverted plan view is shown of the same group with parts omitted for the sake of clearness showing the arrangement of the limiting cross connection or tie-rod, which so limits the extent of spread of the entire series that only four keys and interlocking rods can be shifted to voted position.

l-t is obvious that the tie-rods may be readily removed and arranged and re-ar-v ranged in accordance with the requirements of different elections. 1n all the groups, the spreaders and spacers or blocks at the ends are left free to move and are connected together by the movable limit-ing tie-rods so as to maintain the interlocking spa-ce or extent of spread between them to a constant quantity. 1n single candidate groups the tierods extend between the stops or aluitments or blocks at the ends of the row or group and in multi-candidate groups the adjacent rows are connected by tie-rods extemling between the blocks at the opposite ends thereof and a limiting cross tie-rod extends between the two outside end blocks of the entire group. The threaded portions of the tie-rods permit of nice adjustment so that the interlocking mechanism may be carefully set. for proper operation. The tiesrods which are employed as limiting connections between the ends of the groups are arranged below the series of blocks and the tie-rods which are employed to connect adjacent rows of multi-candidate groups are arranged above the rows of blocks. The movable limiting devices or tie-rods permit tie free movementof all of the interlocking rods and in either direction from 'their normal central position so that the interlocking mecl'ianism as a whole can adjust itse-lf laterally relatively to the frame or casing of the machine and relatively to the rows of keys in accordance with the strain placed upon it by the varied operations of the ballot indicators or leys. rl`his movable limiting device, as stated, reduces one-half the necessary displacement from central position of the interlocking rods if the capacity of the machine in respect to accommodating large groups remains the same or doubles the capacity of the machine .in this respect if the amount of displacement permitted by the construction of the machine remains the same.

So far as the broad scope of the invention is concerned, it is immaterial whether the separate series of interlocking devices are arranged in separate rows or in single row, Moreover', in a single row of interlocking rods and spacers and blocks, it is obvious that the support for the blocks could be employed as the movable limiting connection between the end blocks or between the stops or abutments at the ends of the group.

1n the form of the invention shown, the supporting bars 2211 and 224L are provided at their extreme ends (see Figs. 2 and 3 with stop pins 231 and These stop pins have nothing to do with limiting the spread of any of the groups but simply limit the eXtreme lateral play of the separate rows or series of blocks.

By having the headed ends of the tie-rods extend through unthreaded holes in the studs 222c of the end blocks a one-way connection is formed between the blocks and vthe tie-rods so that the interlocking slides or blocks can all be jammed together against the stud 231 by pressure upon the end slides or blocks, the tie-rods at such time sliding through the studs 222. This is of advantage when it is desired to lock out certain of the rows of keys as in class voting.

r1`he interlocking mechanism prevents the movement of more than a proper number of keys to voted position. The keys or indicaters 1GO are, however, freely movable by the voter into and out of voted position and when any key is restored to its normal, unvoted position, the corresponding interlocking rod 216 is depressed to remove the spreader portion 217 thereof from between the interlocking faces of the adjacent spacers or interlocking blocks 220. 1t is possible, therefore, for the voter by retracting the voted key in a single candidate group to depress or vote another key in the same group. 0r in multi-candidate groups, the voter by reti-acting one or more voted keys may depress one or more dilferent keys in the same group. 1t is possible, therefore, for the voter to correct or change his vote if he has made a mistake. The ballot indicators or keys 160 as set forth in the prior application serve to shift the counter actuators 162 into and out of operative relation with the counters 161.

fl/Then the voter has shifted the desired CCI keys or indicators to voted position to indicate his ballot, the operating mechanism is then brought into play to register his vote and reset the mechanism for the next voter as described in the prior application referred to. This resetting mechanism operates the shafts 210 so as to shift the sleeves 208 and lugs 212 thereon to restore all of the keys 160 and interlocking rods 216 to their normal unvoted position.

It is obvious that the details set forth may be widely varied without departure from the essentials of the invention and that the movable limiting means may be embodied in many other forms than that set forth. The chief advantage of this broad feature of the invention is that is produces the necessary lateral movement of the interlocking rods without reducing the size of the individual spreaders. It is desirable that the spreader portions upon the interlocking rods shall be as large as possible and it is impractical to reduce the size of these spreader portions to any ,great extent since if the spreader portions are of small size the wear upon them would interfere with the active operation of the interlocking mechanism. It is obvious that the smaller the spreader portions are the more easy it would be in a large multi-candidate group, for example, for the voter to actuate one key in excess of the proper number.

Having thus described my invention what I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

l. In a voting machine interlock, the combination of keys and interlocking blocks, spacing devices carried by the keys and maintaining engagement with the blocks, said blocks being arranged in parallel series or rows with connections between the series forming a group, the two outside end blocks of the group on the end office lines being left free to move with connections between them, compelling cordination between them and liking the interlocking space between them to a constant quantity.

2. In avoting machine, interlocking mechanism for multi-candidate voting comprising a plurality of groups of interlocking slides or wedge blocks arranged in parallel rows, connections between said groups to transmit the movement of one group to the next adjacent group and a limiting device extending between the end slides or wedge blocks of the whole series, whereby the spreading of the slides or wedge blocks will occur upon the lines of least resistance.

3. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism for multi-candidate voting comprising a plurality of interlocking slides or wedge blocks, mechanism connected with the ballot keys for spreading the slides or wedge blocks and a movable limiting device eX- tending between the end slides or wedge blocks of the whole series, whereby the shifting of the slides or wedge blocks of the series will occur upon the lines of least resistance.

t. In a voting machine, the combination with a series of voting devices, of interlocking mechanism for interchangeably limiting the number of said devices operable by a voter, said interlocking mechanism being bodily movable as a whole to automatically adjust itself to the operation thereof.

5. In a voting machine, the combination with a stationary frame or casing, of a series of voting devices mounted in said frame or casing', an interlocking mechanism for limiting' the number of devices operable by the voter, said interlocking mechanism being freely movable as a whole relatively to said frame and to said voting devices through a plurality of steps to automatically adjust itself to the varied operations of said voting devices.

6. In a voting machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing, of a series of ballot indicators or keys movably mounted in said frame or casing, counters controlled by said keys, a series of interlocking members operated by said keys, means for limiting the operation of said members to a predetermined number, all of said members and said limiting means being movable together through a plurality of steps in opposite directions relatively to said stationary frame or casing and relatively to said keys.

7. In a voting machine, the combination with a series of voting devices, of a series of interlocking members operated by said voting devices and means cooperating with said interlocking members for limiting the operation thereof to a predetermined number, all of said interlocking members and said limiting means being freely movable in opposite directions.

8. An interlocking mechanism for voting machines comprising a plurality of movable members, stops or abutments between which a limited number of said members are operable and a freely movable connection between said stops or abutments said stops and connection being movable together through a plurality of steps.

9. An interlocking` mechanism for vot-ing machines comprising a plurality of movable members, limiting stops or abutments between which a limited number of said members are operable, and a connection between said stops or abutments, said stops or abutment-s and said connection being freely movable through a plurality of steps in a direction transverse to that of the movement of said members.

10. An interlocking mechanism for voting machines comprising a plurality of longitudinally movable interlocking rods, limitingstops or abutments between which said rods are arranged and a connection between said limiting' stops or abutments, said limiting stops or abutments and said connection being' freely movable with and by said rods in a direction transverse to that of the movement of said rods.

11. An interlocking' mechanism for voting machines comprising a plurality of longitudinally movable interlocking rods, limiting' abutments between which said rods are arranged, said abutments being' adjustable through a plurality of steps transversely of the plane of movement of said rods without changing the distance between them.

12. In a voting' machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing', of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said frame or casing', a series of interlocking' blocks, spreaders for' said blocks operated by said keys, and means fo-r limiting` the operation of said spreaders to a predetermined number, said spreaders, blocks and limiting' means being' freely movable in opposite directions through a plurality of steps relatively to said series of keys.

13. In a voting' machine, the combination with a series of voters keys, each having' a limited movement, of series of interlocking blocks, spreaders for said blocks connected to said keys, a connection between the end blocksof the series, said connection being' freely movable through a plurality of steps in a directio-n transverse to the direction of movement of said spreaders effected by said keys.

14. In a voting' machine, the combination with a series of movable keys, of a series of interlocking' rods connected to said keys and having' spreaders thereon, spaee's or blocks cooperating' with said spreaders, limiting' stops or abutments between which said rods are arranged and a freely movable connection between said limiting' stops or abutments, said stops and connections being' movable together through a plurality of steps.

15. In a voting' machine, the combination with a group of voters keys, of rock arms operated by said keys, a series of interlocking' rods pivoted to said rock arms, a g'roup of interlocking' blocks, said rods having spreaders for said blocks and a freely movable connection between the end blocks o-f the group, said end blocks and connections being' freely movable together through a plurality of steps.

1G. An interlocking mechanism for voting' machines comprising a series of interlocking' spacing' devices and abutments, longitudinally movable spreaders for said spacing' devices, said spreaders being' laterally shiftable with said spacing' devices and abutments and a member freely movable in lateral direction with said spacing devices and spreaders and abutments for limiting' the operation o-f said spreaders to a predetermined number.

17. In a voting' machine, the combination with a series of vot-ers keys, of rock arms operated by said keys, interlocking' rods pivoted to said rock arms, a series of spacing' devices, said rods having' spreaders for said spacing' devices, limiting stops or abutments between which said rods are arranged, and a freely movable connection between said limiting' stops or abutments, said connection being' movable through a plurality of steps by and with the rods when acting' upon the limiting' stops or abut-ments.

18. An interlocking' mechanism for voting machines comprising' a series of longitudinally movable and laterally shiftable interlocking' rods, a series of interlocking' blocks, said rods having' spreaders for said blocks, brought into operation by the longitudinal movement of said rods, means for limiting' the spread of said blocks, said means being' freely movable through a plurality of steps in lateral direction with said blocks and said rods.

19. In a voting' machine, the combination with a series of voters keys, of a series of interlocking rods longitudinally shifted by said keys, a series of interlocking blocks, spreaders for said blocks fixed to said ro-ds, said spreaders and rods being' laterally shiftable with said blocks and means for limiting' the spread of said blocks also laterally shiftable therewith through a plurality of steps.

20. An interlocking' mechanism for voting' machines comprising' a series of interlocking' blocks, a series of spreaders for said blocks and a movable device for limiting the spread of said blocks, said device and said blocks being' freely movable laterally through a plurality of steps.

21. An interlock for voting' machines comprising a row of interlocking' blocks, spreaders for said blocks and means for limiting the spread of said blocks, said spreaders and said limiting' means being' freely movable with said blocks in opposite directions through a plurality of steps.

29. In a vot-ing' machine, the combination with a series of voters keys, of a group of interlocking' blocks, spreaders for said blocks operated by said keys and a connecting' member between the end blocks of the group, said spreaders, said blocks and said connection being' freely movable in opposite directions through a plurality of steps.

23. In a voting machine, the combination with a stationary frame or casing', of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said frame or casing', a series of interlocking' blocks, spreaders for said blocks connected to and shifted by said keys into and out of line with said blocks, and means for limiting' the spread of said blocks, said spreaders,

said blocks and said limiting means beingl freely movable through a plurality of steps in a direction transverse to the movement of said spreaders effected by said keys.

24. In a voting machine, the combination with a series of voters keys, of a group of interlocking blocks therefor arranged in line, spreaders for said blocks connected to and moved by said keys into line with said blocks and a freely movable connection between the end blocks of the group for limiting the number of spreaders that may be drawn into line with said blocks said connection and said blocks being movable together through a plurality of steps.

25. In a voting machine, the combination with a. stationary frame or casing, of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said frame or casing, a group of interlocking blocks therefor arranged and movable in a horizontal plane, vertically movable spreaders for said bloc-ks operated by said keys and a member for limiting the spread of said blocks, said member being movable in a horizontal direction with and by said' spreaders through a plurality of steps when acting upon said blocks.

26. In a voting machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing, of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said frame or casing, rock arms operated by said keys, interlocking rods shifted vert-ically by said rock arms but pivoted thereto to swing' in lateral direct-ion, a series of interlocking blocks arranged and movable in horizontal direction, said rods having spreaders for said blocks, and means for limiting the operation of said rods to a predetermined number, said limiting means, said blocks and said rods and spreaders being freely movable in horizontal direction through a plurality of steps to adjust themselves to the varied operation of said keys.

27. In a voting machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing, of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said frame or casing, a series of rock arms operated by said keys, a series of interlocking rods pivoted to and depending from said rock arms, a horizontal series of interlocking blocks, spreaders for said blocks fixed to said rods, said rods and spreaders being shifted vertically by said keys and rock arms to move said spreaders into line with said blocks, but said rods and spreaders being laterally shiftable in horizontal direction independently of said keys and rock arms and a member for limiting the spread of said blocks, said member being freely movable laterally in horizontal direction with said blocks, spreaders and rods through a plurality of steps.

28. In a voting machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing, of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said frame or casing, a series of interlocking blocks, spreaders for said blocks operated by said keys and a freely movable connection between the end blocks of the series for limiting the interlocking space between said end with a series of voting devices, of a group of interlocking blocks, spreaders for said blocks operated by said voting devices and a freely movable connection between the end blocks of the group for limiting the interlocking space between the same to a constant Quantity said spreaders, blocks and connections being movable together through a plurality of steps.

30. In a voting machine, the combination with a series of voters keys, of a series of interlocking rods having spreaders, said rods being connected to and longitudinally shifted by said keys, spacing devices between which said spreaders are shifted by the movement of said keys and interlocking rods and means coperating with said parts for limiting the operation of said keys and rods to a predetermined number, said rods, said spacing devices and said limiting means being laterally movable through a plurality of steps to adjust themselves to the varied operation of said keys.

3l. In a voting machine, the combination with a stationary frame or casing, of a series of keys movably mounted in said frame o1' casing, a series of laterally swinging interlocking rods having spreader portions, said rods being connected to and longitudinally shifted by said keys, spacing devices between which said spreaders are shifted b-y the move of said keys and said rods, limiting stops or abutments between which a limited number of said rods and spreaders are movable and a freely movable connection between said limiting stops or abutments said connection and said abutments being movable together through a plurality of steps.

32. Inv a voting machine, the combination with a stationary frame or casing, of a series of keys mounted in said casing and each having a limited movement, a series of rock arms connected to and operated by said keys, a series of interlocking rods having spreader portions pivoted to said rock arms, a series of spacing blocks between which said spreader portions are shifted by the movement of said keys, a limiting connect-ion between the end blocks of the series, said rods, spacing blocks and limiting connection being movable laterally through a plurality of stops in a direction transverse to the movement of said rods when shifted by said keys.

33. In a voting machine, the combination with a series of keys, of a series of interhat locking pull rods having spreader' portions that are connected to and longitudinally shifted by said keys, spacing d evices between which said spreader portions are shifted by the movement of said keys and rods and a movable member connecting the end spacing devices and limiting the operation of said keys and rods to a predetermined number.

Sil. In a voting machine, the combination with a series of voters keys, of a series ot pull rods having spreader portions that are connected to and longitudinally shi ted by said keys, a series of spacing blocks between which said spreader portions are shifted by the movement of said keys and rods and a movable connection between the end blocks ot the series said connection and blocks being movable together through a plurality of steps.

An interlocking' mechanism for voting machines comprising plural series of interlocking members, changeable devices between the series for transmitting motion from one to the next adjacent series, whereby the members may be arranged in single and multi-candidate groups, and movable means for determining the limits of the several groups.

36. in interlocking mechanism for voting machines comprising plural series of interlocking members capable'of combination and division into single and multi-candidate groups, stops or abutments for determining the limits of the several groups and movable connections between said stops or abutments maintaining the interlocking space between them to a constant quantity said connections and stops being movable together through a plurality of steps.

37. An interlocking mechanism for voting machines comprising plural series of interlocking spreaders, spacing devices between which said spreaders are movable, changeable devices for transmitting motion from one series of epreaders and spacing devices to the next adjacent series, Vwhereby the spreaders and spacing devices may be arranged in single and multi-candidate groups and movable means for determing the limits of the several groups.

38. ln a voting machine, the combination with a stationary trame or casing, of the plural series ot voters keys movably mounted in said trame or casing, corresponding plural series of interlocking rods having spreader portions, spacing devices between which said spreader portions are shifted by the movement of said keys and rods, interchangeable devices between the separate series for transmitting motion trom one to the next adjacent series, whereby the series of keys and rods may be divided into single and multi-candidate group and freely movable means for deter nining the limits of the several groups said means Abeing movable through a series ot steps.

39. ln a voting machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing, ot the plural series of voters keys movably mounted in the frame or casing, corresponding rods having spreader portions connected to and longitudinally shifted by sait keys, a series of interlocking blocks between which said spreader portions are shifted by the movement of said keys and rods, intercnngeable devices between the series tor transmitting motion Jfrom one series ot rods and blocks to the next adjacent series, whereby the rods and blocks may be arranged in single and multi-candidate groups and movable connections between the end blocks of the several groups said blocks and connections being movable through a plurality ot steps.

40. ln a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or. wedge blocks provided upon their sides with projecting studs and a bar tor sustaining said. slides or wedge blocks and with which said studs engage.

4l. ln a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks provided with laterally projecting studs, a bar for sustaining said slides or blocks and whereon said studs rest and a tie-rod extending between the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the group.

42. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a. group of interlocking slides or blocks, all of which are movable supporting means for said slides or blocks and an adjustable tie-rod extending between the movable slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the group.

43. ln a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks, a supper'J for sustaining said slides or blocks and an adjustable tierod extending diagonally between the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the group, the ends of said tie-rod being detachably connected to the slides or wedge blocks.

tt. ln a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising groups of interlocking slides or blocks, supporting means for said slides or blocks and tie-rods extending diagonally between the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the groups, said tie-rods being detachably connected to the slides or blocks.

45. ln a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks, a support for sustaining said slides or blocks, a tie-rod extending diagonally between the end slides or blocks ot' the group and detachable connections uniting the tie-rod to said end slides or blocks.

46. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks, a support i'or sustaining said slides or blocks, and a diagonal connection coupling the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the group, in a manner permittingl the slides or blocks of the group to be jammed together.

47. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks, a support for sustaining said slides or blocks and a diagonal connection coupling the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the group, said connection being united to one of said end slides or wedge blocks in a manner permitting the connection to move freely with respect thereto to allow the slides or wedge blocks to be jammed together'.

4S. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks, a support for said slides or blocks, a connection detachably uniting the end slides or blocks of the group and a springV for detachably holding one end of the connection to one of said slides or blocks.

49. In a voting' machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a. group of interlocking slides or blocks, a support or sustaining said slides or blocks, the end slides or. blocks ot the group being provided with lateral flanges and a diagonal tie-rod extending between and connecting the lateral flanges ot said end slides or blocks.

. 50. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism for multi-candidate voting comprising a plurality of groups of interlocking slides or blocks arranged side by side, connections uniting the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the adj acont groups, individual links or connections for limiting the .spreading movement of adjacent slides or blocks of each group and a movable limiting device extending between the slides or blocks at the opposite ends of the whole series. l

5l. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism for multi-candidate voting comprising a plurality of slides or blocks arranged in rows or groups and a movable tierod extending diagonally between the slides or wedge blocks of the rows or groups that are arranged at greatest distance from each other.

52. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a group of interlocking slides or blocks,a support for sustaining said slides or blocks, the end slides or blocks of the group being provided with laterally projecting flanges, studs detachably connected to said flanges of the end slides or blocks and a tie-rod extending between said detachable studs.

53. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a series of spreaders and a series of interlocking blocks or spacers,

said spreaders being movable in one direction into and out of line with said spacers or blocks, said spacers or blocks and said spreaders being movable together in a transverse direction and a limiting device extending between the ends of said series of spacers or blocks and spreaders, said limiting device being movable independently ot the :trame ot the machine with said spacers or blocks and spreaders through a plurality of steps.`

54. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism tor multi-candidate voting comprising plural parallel series of interlocking slides or blocks, plural series ot spreaders for said blocks, changeable devices between the series of blocks and spreaders to transmit the movement from one series to the next adjacent series and a limiting device movable independent of the frame of the machine extending diagonally between the ends of the entire group of slides or blocks and spreaders. v

55. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism for multi-candidate voting comprising plural series of interlocking slides or blocks, plural series ot spreaders tor said blocks, connections between said series to transmit the movement from one series to the next adjacent series and a limiting device movable independently ot' the trame of the machine 'extending between the two slides or blocks at the ends of the whole group coupling them for simultaneous movement in either of two directions, whereby the spreading of the slides or blocks may occur in both directions or in the direction of least resistance.

56. In a voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a series ot interlocking blocks or spacers, interlocking rods or straps each formed of two members extending on opposite sides of said blocks or spacers and spreaders for said blocks or spacers fixed between the members of said rods or straps.

57. In Va voting machine, interlocking mechanism comprising a series ot laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers, swinging interlocking rods or straps each formed of two members extending on opposite sides of said blocks or spacers and spreaders tor said blocks or spacers .tixed between the members of said rods or straps, said bloc-ks or spacers having recesses or slots with which said spreaders normally engage, whereby said spreaders and said interlocking rods or straps shift laterally with said blocks or spacers.

58. In a voting machine, the combination with the stationary frame or casing, of a series of voters keys movably mounted in said trame or casing, a series of rock arms operated by said keys, a series of interlocking slide blocks, and interlocking rods or straps pivoted to said rock arms and each formed of two members extending on oppo site sides of said blocks, said rods having spreaders 'for said blocks tiXed between the members thereof and said blocks having slots or cut-away portions or recesses at their ends with which said spreaders normally engage.

59. In a voting machine, the combination with the machine trame, oiC a series of voters keys movably mounted in the machine frame, a series of interlocking slide blocks, interlocking rods connected to and operated by said keys and each comprising two members extending on opposite sides of said blocks, said rods having spreaders for said blocks fixed between the members thereof said spreaders engaging said blocks to move laterally therewith, and a support for said blocks, said blocks having oifset portions slidably engaging said support.

60.1n a voting machine, a series of interlocking slide blocks abutting against each other, a support whereon said blocks are slidably mounted, the abutting faces ot said blocks having cut-away or recessed portions, spreaders for said blocks arranged in said recesses and swinging operating rods for said spreaders each comprising two members extending upon opposite sides of said blocks and between which said spreaders are fixed.

61. In a voting'machine, a series of interlocking slide blocks having parallel,

I abutting, interlocking surfaces, said interlocking surfaces having recessed or cutaway portions having' parallel sides terminating in oppositely inclined surfaces and spreaders for said blocks normally engaging said recessed or cut-away portions and movable laterally with said blocks.

62. In a voting machine interlock, the combination with a series of laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers arranged in rows side by side, ot a series of rock arms, spreaders for said blocks, pull links connecting said spreaders to said rock arms and laterally movable with said blocks and adjustable means for connecting and grouping said separate rows of blocks and spreaders and for limiting their movement, said means being capable of movement with the blocks through a plurality of steps.

63. 1n a voting machine interlock, the combination with the o-tlice rows or lines of voters keys, of corresponding rows of laterally movable interlocking blocks, a series of rock arms connected to said keys, spreaders for said blocks, pull links connecting said spreaders to said rock arms movable laterally with said blocks and means for connecting and grouping and for limiting the spread 'of said separate rows of blocks.

641:. In a voting machine, the combination with the frame or easing, of a series ot longitudinally movable push keys mounted in said frame or easing, a series of laterally movable interlocking blocks, a series of rock arms each connectedat one end to one o' said push keys and spreaders for said blocks connected to the other ends of said rock arms and movable laterally with said blocks.

65. 1n a voting machine, the combination with the rows of longitudinally movable vertical push keys, of the corresponding rows of laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers, a series of rock arms, each connected at one end to one of said push keys, spreaders for said blocks or spacers pivotally connected to the other ends of said rock arms and laterally movable with said blocks or spacers, and means for connecting and grouping and for limiting the operation of said separate rows of blocks and spreaders.

66. 1n an interlocking mechanism for voting machines, a plurality of movable interlocking blocks and wedges, said wedges being movable into and 'out of engagement with the blocks, connections between said blocks to limit the number of wedges operable therebetween to a predetermined number, said blocks and wedges and connections collectively being laterally movable after the vpredetermined number of wedges has been moved to voted position.

67. 1n a voting machine, the combination with the frame or easing having a substantially horizontal tace plate, ot the rows of vertically disposed push keys extending through said face plate, a corresponding series of horizontal supports arranged in said frame or casing below said face plate, rows of interlocking slide blocks mounted on said supports, rock arms mounted in said frame or casing and each connected at one end to one of said push keys, spreaders for said blocks connected to the other endsy of said rock arms and laterally movable with said blocks, and means for grouping pull links connecting said spreaders and for limiting the movement of said rows of blocks and spreaders.

GS. In a voting machine interlock, the combination with the laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers arranged in parallel rows, of tie rods for connecting and interconnecting said rows to group and limit tho movement of the blocks, a series of rock arms, spreaders for said blocks pivotally connected to said rock arms and laterally movable with said blocks and a series of voters keys connected to said rock arms said rock arms being pivotally mounted intermediate their ends and said spreaders and keys being connected to the opposite ends of said rock arms.

69. In a voting machine, the combination with the frame or casing having a substan tially horizontal face plate, of rows of vertically movable push keys extending through said face plate, corresponding rows of laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers, means for connecting and interconnecting said rows or blocks to group and limit their movement, a series of rock arms pivoted intermediate their ends each connected at one end to one of said push keys and spreaders for said blocks pivotally connected to the other ends of said rock arms.

70. In a voting machine, the combination with a group of voting mechanisms, of a group of interlocking devices one for each of the voting mechanisms in the group and each freely movable in opposite directions and a connection also freely movable in opposite directions between the first and last interlocking device of the series, said connection and said devices being toget-her movable through a plurality of steps.

7l. In a voting machine, the combination with a group of voting mechanisms, of a set of interlocking devices one for each of the voting mechanisms in the group, all of the interlocking devices in the group being freely movable in opposite directions through a plurality of steps and arranged to coperate with one another to prevent the operation of more than a predetermined number of said vot-ing mechanisms.

7 2. In a voting machine, the combination with a group of ballot indicators or keys, of a group of interlocking blocks or spacers and spreaders for said blocks operated by said indicators or keys, all of the blocks or spacers and all of the spreaders in the group being freely movable in opposite directions through a plurality of steps and arranged to coperate with one another to prevent the operation of more that a predetermined number of said indicators or keys.

73. In a voting machine, the combination with the office rows or lines of keys, arranged in multi-candidate group, of corresponding rows or lines of interlocking devices connected to and operated by said keys, movable connections between the end device of each row and the device at the opposite end of the next adjacent row and a movable connection between the end devices of the entire group.

74. In a voting machine, the combination with the parallel rows or lines of ballot indicators or keys arranged in multi-candidate group, of corresponding rows of laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers, spreaders for said blocks or spacers operated by said keys, movable connections between the end block of each row and the opposite end block of the next adjacent row and a movable connection between the end blocks of the 'entire group.

75. In a voting machine, the combination with the parallel rows of ballot indicators or keys arranged in multi-candidate group, of corresponding rows of laterally movable interlocking blocks or spacers, spreaders for said blocks or spacers connected to and operated by said indicators or keys, tie rods connecting the end block of each row to the opposite end block of the next adjacent row and a movable cross tie-rod between the extreme end blocks of the entire group.

76. In a voting machine, the combination with the office rows or lines of ballot indicators or keys arranged in multi-candidate group, of laterally movable corresponding rows of interlocking blocks or spacers, spreaders for said blocks or spacers connected to and operated by said indicators or keys, movable connections between the blocks of adjacent rows and a movable cross connection between the extreme end blocks of the entire group.

77. In a voting machine, the combination of a voters key, of guides wherein said key is longitudinally movable, a rock arm p1voted between its ends and having one end engaging a slot in said key and an interlocking strap connected to the opposite end of said rock arm.

78. In a voting machine, the combination with the machine frame having a horizontal top plate, of a series of longitudinally moyable, vertical keys extending through said top plate, interlocking blocks or spacers slidably mounted upon supports in the machine frame below said top plate, a series of rock arms pivoted intermediate their ends and connected at one end each to one of said keys and a series of interlocking pull straps connected to the opposite ends of said keys and having spreaders for said blocks or spacers normally arranged below the same.

JAMES H. DEAN. Vitnesses:

GEORGE P. FISHER, J r., KATHARINE GERLACH.

Copies of Vthis patent may be obtained for five cents each, by addressing the Commissioner of Patents, Washington, D. C. 

